| abstract |
A beam adapted for implantation within a bone is able to support bending and torsional loading forces applied thereto. The beam has a stiffness defined by a modulus elasticity, which stiffness varies along the length of the beam to match the corresponding stiffness of the cortical bone adjacent the beam after implantation within the bone. The beam is made from an elongated core formed of chopped carbon fibers embedded in a thermoplastic polymer matrix. Encasing the core is a sheath formed of carbon reinforced filament fibers embedded in the thermoplastic polymer which is wound in spiral formation around the core and molded thereto. The winding angle and the sheath thickness along the beam may be varied to vary the modulus of elasticity to match that of the cortical bone adjacent thereto. |